After rejection in SA, ChidimmaAdetshinawins Miss Universe Nigeria

ChidimmaAdetshinahas been crowned Miss Universe Nigeria after a contentious attempt to compete inMiss South Africalast month.

Adetshina, 23, born to a Nigerian father and South African mother in South Africa and of South African citizenship, found herselfthe subject ofa national row aftersomeSouth Africans, including a government minister, opposed her participationbecause of her roots.She later withdrew.

“I just want everyone to know that this crown is not just a crown of beauty, it is going to unite us as one. I am really proud and grateful that I am going to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe, and I know we are going to win,” an elatedAdetshinatold the audience.

Read:Model quits as beauty pageant turns ugly

The row overAdetshinabrought into view the xenophobia experienced byNigerians in South Africa which has sometimes descended into violence and attacks against Nigerian businesses in the country.

Adetshinawillrepresent Nigeria at the global Miss Universe pageantin Mexico in November.